August 2011
Antrim Borough Council has installed four internet access points, free to use by the public, in Crumlin, Randalstown, Templepatrick and Toome. The project was funded under the Basic Services Measure of the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme 2007-2013 through GROW South Antrim.
Mayor of Antrim, Councillor Paul Michael formally launched the internet kiosks at Spar in Templepatrick. He said, “These kiosks have been provided by the Council to reach out to people in rural locations who may have difficulty accessing the Internet. They will be able to ‘log on’ and find out anything they need to know including a wealth of information on Council and central government services, town and village plans, tourist information and details of upcoming events. Residents will also be able to carry out transactions online such as applying for a dog licence or booking an MOT test.” He continued, “By placing these kiosks in rural locations, the Council is improving the way it communicates with its residents and providing local access to information technology which is free of charge. On behalf of the Council, I would like to express my gratitude to the Spar in Templepatrick, Tesco in Crumlin, the Spar in Randalstown and TIDAL in Toome House for agreeing to host the kiosks.”
Bertie Tyrell, Manager of Spar Templepatrick said, “The Internet kiosk in our store has been well received by everyone. Residents use the store as a community focal point and the addition of the kiosk to our premises is a real bonus, as local information can be easily accessed. We’ve had visitors to the Borough and people of all ages using the kiosk and I would encourage all those in the local community here in Templepatrick to try it out.”
Blue Apricot are also installing 3 kiosks for Lisburn City Council in Maghaberry, Moira, and another location in November with further roll-outs over the coming months.
